Moving the Mountain · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in Moving the Mountain by Charlotte Perkins Gilman.
Nellie Robertson
major
Also known as Ellen, Ellen Robertson, Nell
Central character, likely the narrator or focal point of the story.
Owen
supporting
Recurring character with significant presence, possibly a romantic interest or family member.
Brother John
supporting
Also known as John, Brother
Recurring character, likely a sibling or close associate of the protagonist.
Jerrold
supporting
Also known as Hallie, young Jerrold, Jerrold Montrose, Hallie Robertson
Young character involved in a subplot, possibly a romance or family dynamic.
Uncle Jake
supporting
Also known as Jake
Older family member with recurring presence in the narrative.
Uncle John
supporting
Also known as John
Family member, possibly distinct from Brother John, with recurring role.
Aunt Dorcas
supporting
Elderly aunt figure with notable presence in the household.
Cousin Drusilla
supporting
Also known as Drusilla, little sunny-haired Drusilla
Young cousin, cheerful and involved in family scenes.
Mr. Robertson
supporting
Patriarch of the Robertson family, likely Nellie's father.
Mrs. Talbot
minor
Recurring character, possibly a neighbor or friend of the family.
Mrs. Masson
minor
Recurring character, possibly a friend or acquaintance.
Frank
minor
Also known as Poor Frank
Character with limited but notable presence, possibly a tragic figure.
Frank Borderson
minor
Character with a distinct name, possibly related to the Borderson family.
Dr. Harkness
minor
Doctor character, likely appears in medical or consultation scenes.
Mr. Pike
minor
Also known as Pike
Character with a recurring but limited role.
Wells
minor
Character with a minor presence, possibly a servant or acquaintance.
Dr. Borderson
minor
Also known as Borderson
Doctor character, possibly related to Frank Borderson.
Mr. Alfred Brown
minor
Also known as Mr. Brown
Character with a named but limited role.
Miss Elwell
minor
Female character with a minor but distinct presence.
Morris Banks
minor
Character with a minor role, possibly a visitor or worker.
Mrs. Allerton
minor
Character with a named but limited appearance.
Cousin John
minor
Also known as John
Cousin of the protagonist, distinct from Brother John.
John Robertson
minor
Family member with the Robertson surname, limited presence.
Lester Ward
minor
Also known as Ward
Character with a minor role, possibly a scholar or acquaintance.